Bill Rigler: Don't conflate height limit with area restrictions

There has been genuine misunderstanding — and in some cases, purposeful misinformation — throughout this election season on height limits and height restrictions. Boulder's height limit is 55 feet, and it is enshrined as law in our Charter. I have continuously and publicly affirmed my unequivocal support for the 55-foot height limit. It's worth noting that, absent a public vote, the Charter cannot be changed.

In recent years, City Council has gradually imposed additional height restrictions that limit new buildings to 38 feet or lower. I support many of these restrictions so we can preserve neighborhood characteristics and our views of the Flatirons. However, in certain areas of the city, particularly along transit corridors and in larger industrial and commercial zones, I believe we should consider easing the height restrictions.

The question of whether to ease height restrictions should necessarily comprise an open, transparent process that values rigorous public input and thoughtful weighing of potential impacts. Many residents in Boulder, myself included, believe that easing height restrictions can help us address our middle-income housing crisis. And, it could also be an appropriate avenue for achieving other important environmental and equity goals.

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Throughout my campaign, I've listened to many residents share their concerns about middle-income housing and affordability. That is why, if I'm elected to City Council, you have my strongest possible assurance that I will be a voice for preserving our 55-foot height limit and taking a cautious and balanced approach to easing our height restrictions.

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